E. Tsatinyan died in three-vehicle accident on Pearblossom Highway

Chevrolet crossed center line and struck eastbound Peterbilt big rig in Llano

January 14, 2026 | Llano, CA

A tragic three-vehicle collision claimed the life of E. Tsatinyan in Llano, California, on Jan. 14. The accident occurred on Pearblossom Highway when a westbound Chevrolet crossed the center line, striking an eastbound Peterbilt semi-truck hauling gravel. 

The accident forced the Peterbilt into oncoming traffic, where it collided with a Range Rover carrying the victim.

E. Tsatinyan was killed when a Chevrolet crossed the centerline on Pearblossom Highway, leading to a Peterbilt striking the Range Rover.

What Happened in the Crash?

The sequence of the crash unfolded just before noon on State Route 138. 

Key details include:

• Vehicles Involved: Chevrolet sedan, Peterbilt semi-truck with two gravel trailers, and Range Rover SUV.
• Location: Pearblossom Highway (State Route 138) near Llano, California.
• Time: Approximately 11:45 a.m.
• Outcome: E. Tsatinyan, a passenger in the Range Rover, was pronounced dead at the scene.
• Other Injuries: The Chevrolet driver sustained moderate injuries and was transported to a local hospital, and no other fatalities were reported.

Authorities confirmed that the Chevrolet's lane departure initiated the chain reaction, leading to the fatal sideswipe.

How Is the CHP Investigating This Fatal Accident?

The California Highway Patrol's Antelope Valley Area office is leading the investigation into the collision's causes. Investigators are examining vehicle conditions, road factors, and driver behaviors to determine liability.

For context on road safety, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that motor vehicle crashes remain a leading cause of death in the U.S.

Why Do These Accidents Happen? Common Causes of Fatal Crashes

Fatal multi-vehicle accidents like this often stem from preventable errors. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), key contributors include:

Source: NHTSA, 2023 Fatality Analysis Reporting System.

These statistics underscore the need for vigilant driving on highways like Pearblossom, known for heavy truck traffic.

Legal Insights on Multi-Vehicle Crash Cases

National legal analyst Candice Bond, managing partner at Bond Legal and a national analyst for Newsline, emphasizes the importance of thorough investigations in multi-vehicle incidents.

“In cases such as this, it is imperative to conduct a prompt independent investigation to preserve evidence and protect the rights of victims' families,” Bond said. “As analysts, our role is to offer legal information and guidance to those affected by motor vehicle crashes.”

Key takeaways from her analysis:

• Review contributing factors like vehicle maintenance and driver history.
• Hire adept witnesses to reconstruct crash dynamics.
• Examine insurance coverage to ensure fair compensation.
• Guide families through the claims process with compassion and advocacy.

Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal, adds perspective on potential claims.

“A wrongful death claim arises when negligence, such as unsafe driving or speeding, leads to a fatality,” Formica noted. “Families may pursue civil actions against at-fault parties for losses including medical costs, funeral expenses, and emotional distress.”

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